The presence of mold is all around us -- outdoors, indoors and in the air we breathe. They can be found almost anywhere in rotting logs, damp leaves, tropical fish tanks, on lawns, in wood chips, garden beds, and sometimes even on the sides of buildings. They’re a natural part of the environment and play a very important role in nutrient cycling.
When in their natural habitat, the presence of mold is not a problem. It is when they start to grow indoors, however, that things can get ugly. Too much indoor mold, as well as long-term exposure to it, can lead to a variety of health effects. Some people, particularly those who are sensitive to molds, can suffer from allergic reactions such as nasal stuffiness, throat irritation, coughing or wheezing, eye irritation or skin irritation. If left to grow, mold can also attach itself to surfaces of building materials in the home and start causing decay that could eventually damage the structure and foundation of the home.
You can take steps to prevent mold from growing inside your home. The best way is to control moisture in the indoor environment. Without moisture, mold will lack one essential nutrient to be able to get its development underway.
Mold prevention tips
Fix leaks in and around your home as soon as possible, such as leaks in the plumbing or windows. Be extra alert for leaks that are hidden out of view, like inside a wall because if they go undetected for very long mold can keep on growing and spreading. Find and repair leak in metal roof, especially roof leaks that lead into the attic as these are also hidden from view and can go undetected. Check the ceiling below the attic for any signs of water damage as this is an indication that you probably have a leaking roof.
Fix gutter problems and maintain gutter/leader system to keep rainwater from getting in through foundation walls and to carry groundwater far away from your foundation.
Check for wet spots that can create condensation in your home. Dew droplets can pool on cold surfaces, such as on cold metal pipes and on cold concrete floors and become prime areas for mold to grow.
Prevent condensation by raising surface temperature or lowering the moisture level in the air (humidity). Improve insulation and draft proofing in the house to help you reduce condensation in your property.
Increase ventilation if outside air is cold and dry or use a dehumidifier if outdoor air is warm and humid to reduce the amount of moisture in the air. Keep indoor humidity below 70%, at levels between 25% - 60%, if possible. Clean HVAC drip pans regularly and maintain regular filter changes to keep ventilation system free from debris that could prevent proper air flow.
Do not dry wet items inside the home, move them to a dry and well ventilated area or to the outside to facilitate quick drying. Clean up wet rugs and wet carpet as soon as possible, do not allow them to stay wet in the area for more than 48 hours after you find them.
Ensure that appliances, such as clothes dryers are vented to the outside where possible to provide an outlet for moisture to evaporate, Moisture control is always a crucial step towards mold prevention. Keep your home dry at all times to control moisture and to prevent the growth of mold. Inspect your home regularly for any indications of water damage or sources of indoor moisture problems and then take steps to act quickly and eliminate the sources of
water problems without delay.
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